The Lazy Genius Podcast: Episode #404 - 10 Ways to Find Calm in the Chaos
Release Date: February 10, 2025
Host: Kendra Adachi, The Lazy Genius
Co-Host: Kristen
In episode #404 of The Lazy Genius Podcast, Kendra Adachi delves into the pervasive feeling of chaos that many listeners are experiencing. Drawing from personal anecdotes, societal observations, and practical strategies, Kendra outlines 10 actionable ways to cultivate calm amidst the turmoil. The episode is thoughtfully divided into techniques addressing both inner and outer chaos, providing a comprehensive toolkit for managing life's unpredictable challenges.
Understanding Chaos
Kendra begins by acknowledging the multifaceted nature of chaos, recognizing that it manifests differently for everyone. She categorizes chaos into three primary pairs of counterparts:
- Inner vs. Outer Chaos
- Regular vs. Irregular Chaos
- Controlled vs. Out of Control Chaos
By defining these categories, Kendra emphasizes the importance of naming and understanding the type of chaos one is dealing with, as this clarity is the first step toward regaining control.
"Chaos can be characterized with three pairs of counterparts: Inner and outer, regular and irregular, and controlled or out of control." [04:35]
Five Ways to Find Calm in Inner Chaos
-
Breathe Deeply
Deep, slow breaths are fundamental. Kendra highlights the often-overlooked significance of mindful breathing in grounding oneself."When you feel like chaos is filling your body, taking a deep, slow breath will always help." [17:20]
-
Have a Go-To Peacemaker
Establish a personal tool or activity that instantly brings peace, such as listening to a favorite song or calling a trusted friend."Find that thing for yourself or just be willing to receive it when it comes." [19:10]
-
Challenge Your Inner Narrative
Inspired by Brené Brown, Kendra advises listeners to interrogate the stories they tell themselves, questioning their validity and completeness."What story am I telling myself? What am I believing to be true right now?" [21:45]
-
Determine What’s Within Your Control
Drawing from Suzanne Stabile, she encourages focusing only on what one can control, thereby reducing unnecessary stress."When you want to do everything and when you don't want to do anything, ask yourself, 'What is mine to do?'" [24:30]
-
Recognize and Embrace the Good
Kendra introduces the mantra, "Good is here right now," urging listeners to seek out positive aspects even in difficult times."Look for counterweights. Look for things that bring harmony and balance and peace." [28:15]
Five Ways to Find Calm in Outer Chaos
-
Engage in Simple Pleasures
Embracing everyday joys—like enjoying a favorite book, savoring a cookie, or laughing at a silly song—can provide immediate relief from chaos."Enjoy the things you love. Enjoy the cozy blanket and the mug of tea." [31:50]
-
Practice Slowness
Slowing down in actions and thoughts helps in maintaining composure and prevents one from becoming overwhelmed by the fast-paced world."Slowness helps me stay grounded within it." [35:10]
-
Seek Daily Bread
Rooted in faith, this principle emphasizes focusing on daily sustenance and being present in the moment, rather than being consumed by long-term problems."The deepest piece lies in just being here right now, today." [38:00]
-
Embrace the Liturgy of the Ordinary
Inspired by Tish Harrison Warren, Kendra suggests finding sanctity in daily routines and mundane tasks, transforming them into mindful practices."When we look at the ordinary things as a liturgy, they become vital structural components to our peace." [40:25]
-
Value People
Despite the frustrations they may bring, human connections are essential. Kendra advocates for nurturing relationships as a source of strength and calm."People are all we've got. People are what we need." [43:45]
Personal Reflections
Kendra shares her own struggles with overwhelming chaos, describing it as feeling like an "American Ninja Warrior obstacle course." She candidly discusses her efforts to find equilibrium by adhering to a strict bedtime routine inspired by a favorite television character, underscoring the importance of self-care in turbulent times.
"Finding Calm in the Chaos is not just a cute title, it's survival for me right now." [10:20]
Practical Applications
Towards the end of the episode, Kendra offers listeners additional resources such as her book, The Plan, and playbook bundles designed to aid in time management and contentment. She also highlights the importance of community support, celebrating listener Sarah Montgomery as the "Lazy Genius of the Week" for her compassionate approach to supporting her wife diagnosed with ADHD.
Conclusion
Kendra wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of naming chaos types and implementing the 10 strategies to foster calm. She encourages listeners to embrace both inner and outer techniques, emphasizing that balance and peace are attainable through deliberate actions and mindful practices.
"Be a genius about the things that matter and lazy about the things that don't." [33:50]
Key Takeaways:
- Understand the Nature of Chaos: Differentiate between inner and outer, regular and irregular, controlled and out-of-control chaos to better address each situation.
- Implement Practical Strategies: Utilize breathing, personal peacemakers, narrative challenges, control assessment, and recognition of good to manage inner chaos.
- Engage with the Environment: Embrace simple pleasures, practice slowness, focus on daily sustenance, cherish ordinary routines, and value human connections to mitigate outer chaos.
- Self-Care is Crucial: Prioritize personal well-being through consistent routines and mindful practices to navigate overwhelming circumstances.
By integrating these approaches, listeners can cultivate resilience and tranquility in the midst of life's inevitable challenges.